Cross states thatmost jobs go as planned and — thankfully — don''t create much of a challenge, but all it takes is a recurring spot, wicking soil or a stubborn "ugly" traffic lane to make for a bad day.

He notes that recurring spots don''t always happen overnight. Sometimes, it can be several days or even weeks after the cleaning.

Cross adds that a thorough prevacuuming with a high-quality commercial vacuum will remove dry soil and result in less wicking.

According to Cross, soil in carpet is abrasive and will scratch and damage fibers; an "ugly" traffic lane may appear that way due to fiber damage.

Jeff Cross is the senior editor of Cleanfax magazine. With more than 20 years of experience in the carpet and furniture cleaning and disaster restoration industries, Cross is an IICRC-approved instructor and teaches carpet cleaning, furniture cleaning, carpet color repair and spot and stain removal seminars across the country. Visit his training website at www.cleaningprofessor.com. E-mail: jcross@ntpmedia.com.